US20130038084A1 - Convertible top - Google Patents
Convertible top Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20130038084A1 US20130038084A1 US13/143,534 US201013143534A US2013038084A1 US 20130038084 A1 US20130038084 A1 US 20130038084A1 US 201013143534 A US201013143534 A US 201013143534A US 2013038084 A1 US2013038084 A1 US 2013038084A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- convertible top
- rear panel
- front panel
- panel member
- top assembly
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60J—WINDOWS, WINDSCREENS, NON-FIXED ROOFS, DOORS, OR SIMILAR DEVICES FOR VEHICLES; REMOVABLE EXTERNAL PROTECTIVE COVERINGS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES
- B60J7/00—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs
- B60J7/08—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of non-sliding type, i.e. movable or removable roofs or panels, e.g. let-down tops or roofs capable of being easily detached or of assuming a collapsed or inoperative position
- B60J7/12—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of non-sliding type, i.e. movable or removable roofs or panels, e.g. let-down tops or roofs capable of being easily detached or of assuming a collapsed or inoperative position foldable; Tensioning mechanisms therefor, e.g. struts
- B60J7/14—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of non-sliding type, i.e. movable or removable roofs or panels, e.g. let-down tops or roofs capable of being easily detached or of assuming a collapsed or inoperative position foldable; Tensioning mechanisms therefor, e.g. struts with a plurality of rigid plate-like elements or rigid non plate-like elements, e.g. with non-slidable, but pivotable or foldable movement
- B60J7/143—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of non-sliding type, i.e. movable or removable roofs or panels, e.g. let-down tops or roofs capable of being easily detached or of assuming a collapsed or inoperative position foldable; Tensioning mechanisms therefor, e.g. struts with a plurality of rigid plate-like elements or rigid non plate-like elements, e.g. with non-slidable, but pivotable or foldable movement for covering the passenger compartment
- B60J7/146—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of non-sliding type, i.e. movable or removable roofs or panels, e.g. let-down tops or roofs capable of being easily detached or of assuming a collapsed or inoperative position foldable; Tensioning mechanisms therefor, e.g. struts with a plurality of rigid plate-like elements or rigid non plate-like elements, e.g. with non-slidable, but pivotable or foldable movement for covering the passenger compartment all elements being folded in same orientation and stacked fashion
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60J—WINDOWS, WINDSCREENS, NON-FIXED ROOFS, DOORS, OR SIMILAR DEVICES FOR VEHICLES; REMOVABLE EXTERNAL PROTECTIVE COVERINGS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES
- B60J7/00—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs
- B60J7/20—Vehicle storage compartments for roof parts or for collapsible flexible tops
- B60J7/202—Vehicle storage compartments for roof parts or for collapsible flexible tops being characterised by moveable cover parts for closing the gap between boot lid and rearmost seats
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60J—WINDOWS, WINDSCREENS, NON-FIXED ROOFS, DOORS, OR SIMILAR DEVICES FOR VEHICLES; REMOVABLE EXTERNAL PROTECTIVE COVERINGS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES
- B60J7/00—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs
- B60J7/20—Vehicle storage compartments for roof parts or for collapsible flexible tops
- B60J7/205—Vehicle storage compartments for roof parts or for collapsible flexible tops where the boot lid opens in rearward direction to receive the roof and in forward direction to receive luggage
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60J—WINDOWS, WINDSCREENS, NON-FIXED ROOFS, DOORS, OR SIMILAR DEVICES FOR VEHICLES; REMOVABLE EXTERNAL PROTECTIVE COVERINGS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES
- B60J7/00—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs
- B60J7/20—Vehicle storage compartments for roof parts or for collapsible flexible tops
- B60J7/208—Vehicle storage compartments for roof parts or for collapsible flexible tops with improved trunk access by moving the folded roof package when opening the trunk lid for loading or unloading luggage
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Body Structure For Vehicles (AREA)
- Superstructure Of Vehicle (AREA)
- Vehicle Step Arrangements And Article Storage (AREA)
Abstract
The convertible top assembly includes a front panel member and a rear panel member. The convertible top assembly also includes a main pivot bracket attached to the vehicle. The main pivot bracket includes a forwardly located arm pivotally connected to a rear edge of the front panel member and a rearwardly located arm pivotally attached to a rear edge of the rear panel member, such that an inner surface of the front panel member is adjacent an outer surface of the rear panel member when the convertible top is in a retracted position. To retract the convertible top, the deck lid pivots on a rearward edge along a first pivot axis while a rear edge of the rear panel pivots upwardly about a third pivot axis.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/143,200, filed Jan. 8, 2009, which is incorporated herein by reference.
- The present disclosure relates generally to a convertible top for a vehicle, and more particularly to convertible top assembly for a convertible vehicle.
- Vehicles with a convertible top include a roof portion that is moveable between an extended position covering the interior of the vehicle, and a retracted position whereby the interior or passenger compartment of the vehicle is exposed. In an extended position, a front portion of the convertible top is aligned and locked to an adjacent header portion of a windshield, in a retracted position, the roof is disposed within a storage space, typically located behind the passenger compartment. In this example, the convertible top storage space is within the trunk compartment of the vehicle.
- While conventional convertible tops work well, it is desirable to provide a convertible top that is compact when folded, operates more efficiently, is easier to assembly and less expensive to produce. Thus, there is a need in the art for a convertible top assembly that is accessible to the vehicle operator, and quickly moves between the extended and retracted positions.
- Accordingly, the present disclosure relates to a convertible top assembly. The convertible top assembly includes a front panel member and a rear panel member. The convertible top assembly also includes a main pivot bracket attached to the vehicle. The main pivot bracket includes a forwardly located arm pivotally connected to a rear edge of the front panel member and a rearwardly located arm pivotally attached to a rear edge of the rear panel member, such that an inner surface of the front panel member is adjacent an outer surface of the rear panel member when the convertible top is in a retracted position. To retract the convertible top, the deck lid pivots on a rearward edge along a first pivot axis while a rear edge of the rear panel pivots upwardly about a third pivot axis. At a predetermined time, the front panel pivots rearwardly along an arc and the tonneau cover pivots upwardly about a front edge so that the front panel passes underneath the rear panel and is stowed in the storage compartment, the rear panel closes on top of the front panel, the tonneau closes and the deck lid closes and is latched.
- An advantage of the present disclosure is that a convertible top assembly is provided that quickly moves between extended and retracted positions. Another advantage of the present invention is that the convertible top assembly is readily packagable into the trunk of the vehicle. A further advantage of the present invention is that the convertible top assembly is cost effective to implement.
- Other features and advantages of the present disclosure will be readily appreciated, as the same becomes better understood after reading the subsequent description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle having a convertible top. -
FIG. 2 is an elevational side view of the convertible top assembly for the convertible vehicle ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is an devotional side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 2 illustrating nominal opening of the deck lid. -
FIG. 4 another elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 5 is an devotional side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 2 illustrating opening of the deck lid to retract the convertible top assembly. -
FIG. 6 is an elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 2 illustrating opening of the rear panel to retract the convertible top assembly. -
FIG. 7 is an elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 2 illustrating opening of the deck lid and rear panel at mid cycle to retract the convertible top assembly. -
FIG. 8 is an elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 2 illustrating opening of the front panel to retract the convertible top assembly. -
FIG. 9 is an elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 2 illustrating opening of the tonneau cover to retract the convertible top assembly. -
FIG. 10 is an elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 2 illustrating storage of the front panel to retract the convertible top assembly. -
FIG. 11 is an elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 2 illustrating storage of the rear panel and deck lid to retract the convertible top assembly. -
FIG. 12 is an elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 2 illustrating closing of the tonneau cover to retract the convertible top assembly. -
FIG. 13 is an devotional side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 2 in a retracted position. -
FIGS. 14-20 are side views of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 2 illustrating operation of the main pivot bracket. -
FIG. 21 is an devotional side view of the convertible top assembly for the convertible vehicle ofFIG. 1 , according to an exemplary embodiment. -
FIG. 22 is an elevational perspective view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 21 . -
FIG. 23 is a partial enlarged view of the main pivot bracket of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 21 . -
FIG. 24 is another elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 21 illustrating nominal opening of the deck lid. -
FIG. 25 is an devotional side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 21 illustrating opening of the rear panel to retract the convertible top assembly. -
FIG. 26 is an elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 21 illustrating the positioning of the rear panel adjacent the front panel to retract the convertible top assembly. -
FIG. 27 is an elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 21 illustrating the opening of the deck lid to retract the convertible top assembly. -
FIG. 28 is an elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 21 illustrating the complete opening of the deck lid to retract the convertible top assembly. -
FIG. 29 is an elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 21 illustrating the opening of the front panel to retract the convertible top assembly. -
FIG. 30 is an elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 21 illustrating the further opening of the front panel to retract the convertible top assembly. -
FIG. 31 is an elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 21 illustrating the storage the front and rear panel to retract the convertible top assembly. -
FIG. 32 is an elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 21 illustrating the storage of the front and rear panel and the deck lid closed. -
FIG. 33 is an elevational side view of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 21 illustrating the storage of the convertible top assembly and opening of the deck lid to access the storage area of the vehicle. -
FIG. 34-44 are side views of the convertible top assembly ofFIG. 21 illustrating operation of the main pivot bracket. - Referring to
FIG. 1 , avehicle 10 having aconvertible top 12 is illustrated. In this example thevehicle 10 is a motor vehicle having two doors, although in another example the vehicle has more than two doors. Thevehicle 10 includes an interior space referred to as a passenger compartment. The passenger compartment is enclosed by amoveable convertible top 12 that covers the passenger compartment in an extended position. Thevehicle 10 also includes a storage space referred to as a trunk or luggage compartment. The trunk or luggage compartment is accessible via adeck lid 14. - The
deck lid 14 is a generally planar panel member pivotally connected to thevehicle body 10 such that thedeck lid 14 can articulate in multiple positions. For example, thedeck lid 14 may pivot about aforward edge 14 b shown inFIG. 3 in order to provide access to the trunk of the vehicle, and thedeck lid 14 may pivot about a rearward edge as shown inFIG. 6 in order to stow the folded top within the vehicle trunk. In this example, thedeck lid 14 is secured to adeck lid frame 16. Thedeck lid frame 16 is rigidly supported within the vehicle trunk, and is secured to the vehicle body, such as by a fastener or the like. Thedeck lid frame 16 may also include asupport member 18 for supporting thedeck lid 14 in an open position, such as a gas strut or the like. Thedeck lid frame 16 also includes a decklid linkage member 20 for controlling articulation of thedeck lid 14 about afirst pivot point 22 or asecond pivot point 24. In this example, thedeck lid linkage 20 is a 4-bar linkage, and the pivotal movement of the 4-bar linkage 20 about the first orsecond pivot points deck lid 14 either forwardly or rearwardly in a manner to be described. - The
convertible top 12 may be fabricated from a hard material or a soft material or a combination thereof. In this example, the convertible top 12 is a hard top. The convertible top 12 includes afront panel 26 and arear panel 28. Eachpanel forwardmost edge 26 d of thefront panel 26 is connected to the windshield when the convertible top 12 is in an extended position using a latch, such as a header latch (not shown) or the like. Eachpanel inner surface outer surface rear panel members 26, 28 (rear edge offront panel 26 c and front edge ofrear panel 28 d) may be locked together via panel to panel latches when the convertible top 12 is in an extended position that serve to rigidly interconnect thepanels front panel 26 andrear panel 28 collapse or fold when the convertible top 12 is retracted in a manner to be described. With the convertible top 12 extended, the forward edge of therear section 28 is adjacent the rearward edge of thefront section 26, and the rearward edge of therear section 28 is adjacent the vehicle body. - The convertible top 12 is connected to the vehicle body via a
main pivot bracket 30. Themain pivot bracket 30 is fixedly attached to the vehicle body using a connector, such as a bolt or the like. Themain pivot bracket 30 includes a plurality of interconnected, symmetrical, pivotal links 31. Movement of themain pivot bracket 30 causes thefront panel 26 andrear panel 28 to articulate in a. manner to be described, so that the outer surface of thefront panel 26 a and inner surface of therear panel 28 b are adjacent one another when the top 12 is retracted and stowed within the storage area 15 (e.g., vehicle trunk, etc.). Movement of themain pivot bracket 30 is controlled by an actuator between the extended and stowed positions. - The
main pivot bracket 30 includes abase member 32 that is secured to thevehicle 12. Thebase member 32 may be a frame havingsymmetrical side members 33. A lower end of afront link 34 is pivotally secured to a forward end of the side member so that thefront panel 26 pivots about afourth pivot axis 40. Thefront link 34 is an elongated member. A rear edge of thefront panel 26 is pivotally attached to an upper end of thefront link 34. Themain pivot bracket 30 also includes arear link 36 having a lower end 36 a pivotally secured to arearward end 33 a of theside member 33 and anupper end 36 b pivotally secured to arear edge 28 c of therear panel 28. The rear panel pivots about athird pivot axis 38. - The convertible
top assembly 12 may include a downstack receiver that is conventional in the art (not shown and latch assembly bat is conventional in the art (not shown) for supporting and/or retaining the retracted hardtop components in the storage area when the top is retracted. The downstack receiver receives and supports thepanels trunk storage area 15. - The convertible
top assembly 12 is controlled by a control system e.g., electronic, manual, etc.) that is conventional in the art (not shown) that operatively controls a specific sequence of operations for opening or stowing the convertible top 12 and for closing or extending theconvertible top 12. Various steps in the sequence may occur simultaneously. The opening sequence is as follows. The user operates a switch (not shown) that is conventional in the art which opens a latch at a predetermined time, such as the header latches, panel latches and deck lid latches. The switch can be located at any appropriate location that is convenient such as the front console, dash, or the like. Thedeck lid 14 anddeck lid frame 16 pivot upwardly about a rearmost edge of thedeck lid 14 a along thefirst pivot axis 22 via a connection link, to uncover thetrunk compartment 15 as shown inFIGS. 5 and 6 . At the same time, the rearmost edge of therear panel 28 c pivots about athird pivot axis 38 due to pivotal movement of therear link 36. An assist orsupport device 18 such as a hydraulic cylinder may be utilized to pivotally move therear panel 28. A connectinglink 42 has one end 42 a connected to therear panel 28 and anotherend 42 b connected to thedeck lid 14 for coordinated movement. When thedeck lid 12,deck lid frame 16 andrear panel 28 attain a predetermined opening position, as shown inFIG. 7 at 44, articulation of thefront panel 26 is initiated about thefourth pivot axis 40. Therearmost edge 26 c of thefront panel 26 is pivotally secured to thefront link 34 having a lower end 34 a pivotally secured to aforward end 33 b of theside member 33 and an upper end 34 b pivotally secured to arear edge 26 c of thefront panel 26. An assist orsupport device 18, such as a hydraulic cylinder may interconnect themain pivot bracket 30 and the mainfront link 34, to assist in movement of thefront panel 26, as shown inFIG. 8 . As thefront panel 26 is pivoting, atonneau cover 46 may also be actuated, as shown inFIG. 9 . Thetonneau cover 46 rotates about a fifth pivot axis shown at 48. A hinge, such as the goose neck hinge shown at 50, enables thefront panel 26 to pass over thetonneau cover 46 and under therear panel 28 to stow in the storage compartment or trunk, as shown inFIG. 10 at 52. Once thefront panel 26 reaches the end of its cycle, the cover flaps 47 on thetonneau cover 46 are rotated in an outwardly direction. For example, an actuator (not shown) such as a motor (i.e. electric) and a cable (i.e. pull cable) control the operation of thetonneau cover 46. The free end of therear panel 28 then pivots downwardly about thethird pivot axis 38 to complete the closing cycle as shown inFIG. 11 at 54. The assist or support mechanism or hydraulic cylinder may effectuate this movement. The rear orfront panel tonneau cover 46 is lowered back to its nominal position as shown inFIG. 12 at 56. Thedeck lid 14 closes and is latched as shown inFIG. 13 at 58 using a latch (not shown). The described procedure is reversed in order to raise the top. - The convertible
top assembly 12 may include other features, such as a switch (not shown) for operating the top 12. The switch may be in a remotely located, such as on a key fob, or integrally located on thevehicle 10. The control may send a command to a window controller to lower a side window prior to cycling the top. A warning chime may be provided which indicates movement of the top 12. Similarly, raising or lowering of the top 12 may only be allowed under a predetermined vehicle condition, such as when thevehicle 10 is parked. The system may include a number of sensors, such as limit switches that sense the various conditions, such as latch engagement, panel position or the like. The system may include a sensor which determines if the luggage occupies the trunk, and determines if the top 12 can cycle. The system may include an overload sensor for determining if the actuators exceed a given load. In addition, the system may cease operation if an expected condition is not sensed within a predetermined timeout period. - Referring now generally to
FIGS. 21-23 , a convertibletop assembly 212 according to an alternate embodiment is shown where like features have reference numbers increased by two hundred. Thedeck lid 214 is a generally planar panel member pivotally connected to thevehicle body 10 such that thedeck lid 214 can articulate in multiple positions. For example, thedeck lid 214 may pivot about a forward edge 214 b in order to provide access to the trunk of thevehicle 215, and thedeck lid 214 may pivot about arearward edge 214 a in order to stow the folded top within thevehicle trunk 215. Thedeck lid 214 can be secured to a deck lid frame (not shown). The deck lid frame can be rigidly supported within thevehicle trunk 215, and secured to the vehicle 210 body, such as by a fastener or the like. The deck lid frame may also include a support member for supporting thedeck lid 214 in an open position, such as a gas strut or the like. The deck lid frame may also include deck lid linkage members for controlling articulation of thedeck lid 214 about afirst pivot point 222 or asecond pivot point 224. - The
convertible top 212 may be fabricated from a hard material or a soft material or a combination thereof. In this example, theconvertible top 212 is a hard top. Theconvertible top 212 includes afront panel 226 and arear panel 228. Eachpanel forwardmost edge 226 d of thefront panel 226 is connected to the windshield when theconvertible top 212 is in an extended position using a latch that is conventional in the art (not shown), such as a header latch or the like. Eachpanel inner surface 276 b, 228 b and anouter surface rear panel members 226, 228 (rear edge offront panel 226 c and front edge ofrear panel 228 d) may be locked together via panel to panel latches when theconvertible top 212 is in an extended position that serve to rigidly interconnect thepanels front panel 226 andrear panel 228 collapse or fold when theconvertible top 212 is retracted in a manner to be described. With the convertible top 212 extended, the forward edge of therear section 228 is adjacent therearward edge 226 c of thefront section 226, and therearward edge 228 c of therear section 228 is adjacent the vehicle body. - The
convertible top 212 is connected to the vehicle body via amain pivot bracket 230. Themain pivot bracket 230 is fixedly attached to the vehicle body using a connector, such as a bolt or the like. Themain pivot bracket 230 includes a plurality of interconnected, symmetrical,pivotal links 231. Movement of themain pivot bracket 230 causes thefront panel 226 andrear panel 228 to articulate in a manner to be described, so that the outer surface of thefront panel 226 a and inner surface of therear panel 228 b are adjacent one another when the top 212 is retracted and stowed within thestorage area 215. Movement of themain pivot bracket 230 is controlled by an actuator that is conventional in the art (not shown)between the extended and stowed positions. - The
main pivot bracket 230 includes abase member 232 that is secured to thevehicle 212. Thebase member 232 may be a frame havingsymmetrical side members 233. Alower end 234 a of afront link 234 is pivotally secured to aforward end 233 a of theside member 233 so that thefront panel 226 pivots about afourth pivot axis 240. Thefront link 234 is an elongated member. Arear edge 226 c of thefront panel 226 is pivotally attached to an upper end 234 b of thefront link 234. Themain pivot bracket 230 also includes arear link 236 having a lower end 236 a pivotally secured to the upper end 234 b of thefront link 234 and an upper end 236 b pivotally secured to arear edge 228 c (orfront edge 228 d, ormiddle section 228 e, or another portion of the rear panel) of therear panel 228. Therear panel 228 pivots about athird pivot axis 238. - The convertible
top assembly 212 may include a downstack receiver that is conventional in the art (not shown and latch assembly that is conventional in the art (not shown) for supporting and/or retaining the retracted hardtop components in thestorage area 215 when the top 212 is retracted. The downstack receiver receives and supports thepanels trunk storage area 215. - Referring now to
FIGS. 24-33 , the steps for opening the convertibletop assembly 212 is shown. The convertibletop assembly 212 is controlled by a control system (not shown) that operatively controls a specific sequence of operations for opening or stowing theconvertible top 212 and for closing or extending theconvertible top 212. Various steps in the sequence may occur simultaneously. The opening sequence is as follows. The user operates a switch (not shown) which opens a latch at a predetermined time, such as the header latches, panel latches and deck lid latches. Therear panel 228 pivots upwardly about thethird pivot axis 238 via therear link 236 until theinner surface 228 b of therear panel 228 is adjacent to theouter surface 226 a of thefront panel 226, as shown inFIGS. 25 and 26 . Thedeck lid 214 pivots upwardly about a rearmost edge along thefirst pivot axis 222, as shown inFIGS. 27 and 28 . At the same time, thefront panel 226 pivots simultaneously about a third pivot axis (floating pivot point) 238 and afourth pivot axis 240 due to pivotal movement of thefront link 234, as shown inFIGS. 29 and 30 . An assist orsupport device 218 such as a hydraulic cylinder may be utilized to pivotally move thefront panel 226. The rearmost edge of thefront panel 226 is pivotally secured to thefront link 234. An assist orsupport device 218, such as a hydraulic cylinder may interconnect themain pivot bracket 230 and the mainfront link 234, to assist in movement of thefront panel 226, as shown inFIGS. 29-30 . The front panel 226 (and rear panel 228) continues to pivot downwardly until it is stowed in the storage compartment ortrunk 215, as shown inFIG. 31 at 252. The assist or support mechanism or hydraulic cylinder may effectuate this movement. The rear orfront panel deck lid 214 closes and is latched as shown inFIG. 32 at 258. The deck lid may also include atonneau cover 246. The described procedure is reversed in order to raise the top 212. - The convertible
top assembly 212 may include other features, such as a switch (not shown) for operating the top 212. The switch may be in a remotely located, such as on a key fob, or integrally located on the vehicle 210. The control may send a command to a window controller to lower a side window prior to cycling the tope. A warning chime may be provided which indicates movement of the top 212. Similarly, raising or lowering of the top 212 may only be allowed under a predetermined vehicle condition, such as when the vehicle 210 is parked. The system may include a number of sensors, such as limit switches that sense the various conditions, such as latch engagement, panel position or the like. The system may include a sensor which determines if the luggage occupies the trunk, and determines if the top 212 can cycle. The system may include an overload sensor for determining if the actuators exceed a given load. In addition, the system may cease operation if an expected condition is not sensed within a predetermined timeout period. - Referring now to
FIGS. 34-44 , themain pivot bracket 230 is shown. Themain pivot bracket 230 includes a floating pivot point (third pivot axis) 238 that reduces the package space of the convertibletop assembly 212, as shown inFIGS. 38 and 39 . In operation, the floatingpivot point 238 moves (rotates, pivots, etc.) from a first location (up position) 238 a to a second location (down position) 238 b during retraction of theconvertible top 212 and in particular, during articulation of thefront panel 226 via thefront link 234, as shown inFIGS. 38 and 39 . The front andrear link main pivot bracket 230 is designed to have a linkage and hydraulic cylinder to facilitate opening and closing of the top 212 and provide for easier loading of the storage/trunk area 215 of the vehicle 210, as shown inFIGS. 40-44 . For example, cargo (e.g., luggage, etc.) can be removed from or placed within the trunk/storage area 215 by pressing an actuator (not shown) that activates the mechanism to tilt the front andrear panels forward edges trunk 215 without the need to completely cycle the top 212 to its closed position, as shown inFIG. 44 . - Many modifications and variations of the present disclosure are possible in light of the above teachings. Therefore, within the scope of the appended claim, the present disclosure may be practiced other than as specifically described.
Claims (16)
1-16. (canceled)
17. A convertible top assembly for a vehicle that is moveable between an extended position and a retracted position in a storage compartment of the vehicle, the assembly comprising:
a deck lid pivotable to provide access to the storage compartment;
a front panel member;
a rear panel member;
a main pivot bracket having a front link pivotally connected to a rear edge of the front panel member and a rear link pivotally attached to a rear edge of the rear panel member, such that an outer surface of the front panel member is adjacent an inner surface of the rear panel member and an inner surface of the deck lid is adjacent an outer surface of the rear panel member when the convertible top assembly is in the refracted position in the storage compartment.
18. The convertible top assembly of claim 17 , wherein the main pivot bracket includes a base member fixedly attached to the vehicle.
19. The convertible top assembly of claim 18 , wherein the base member includes a side member, and a lower end of the front link is pivotally secured to a forward end of the side member so that the front panel member pivots about a front panel pivot axis, and a lower end of the rear link is pivotally secured to a rearward end of the side member so that the rear panel member pivots about a rear panel pivot axis as the convertible top assembly is moved between the extended position and the retracted position.
20. The convertible top assembly of claim 19 , wherein the rearmost edge of the rear panel member pivots about the rear panel pivot axis to a predetermined opening position prior to articulation of the front panel member about the front panel pivot axis.
21. The convertible top assembly of claim 20 , further comprising a connecting link having a first end pivotally connected to the rear panel member and a second end pivotally connected to the deck lid, such that the outer surface of the rear panel member is adjacent the inner surface of the deck lid when the convertible top is in the retracted position in the storage compartment.
22. The convertible top assembly of claim 17 , further comprising a tonneau cover pivotally connected to the main pivot bracket at a tonneau pivot axis, such that the front panel member passes over the tonneau cover and under the rear panel member when the convertible top assembly is moved to the refracted position.
23. The convertible top assembly of claim 17 , further comprising a support device interconnecting the main pivot bracket to the forward link and the rearward link to facilitate movement of the front panel member and the rear panel member.
24. The convertible top assembly of claim 23 , wherein the support device is a hydraulic cylinder.
25. The convertible top assembly of claim 17 , further comprising an actuator for controlling movement of the main pivot bracket and thereby the front panel member and the rear panel member between the extended and the retracted position.
26. A method of retracting a convertible top for a vehicle, comprising:
pivoting a front edge of a deck lid upwardly along a deck lid pivot axis while pivoting a front edge of a rear panel upwardly about a rear panel pivot axis until the deck lid and rear panel attain a predetermined opening angle;
pivoting a front panel rearwardly along an arcuate path and about a front panel pivot axis, so that the front panel passes underneath the rear panel and is stowed in a storage compartment of the vehicle;
lowering the rear panel to stow the rear panel in the storage compartment to be adjacent the front panel; and
closing the deck lid over the storage compartment.
27. A method as set forth in claim 26 wherein pivoting a front panel further includes pivoting a tonneau cover upwardly about a tonneau cover pivot axis so that the front panel passes over the tonneau cover and under the rear panel.
28. The method as set forth in claim 27 wherein lowering the rear panel further includes closing the tonneau cover after the rear panel is lowered.
29. The method as set forth in claim 26 wherein the front panel and the real panel are interconnected via a main pivot bracket having a front link pivotally connected to a rear edge of the front panel and a rear link pivotally attached to a rear edge of the rear panel, such that an outer surface of the front panel is adjacent an inner surface of the rear panel when the convertible top is stowed in the storage compartment.
30. The method as set forth in claim 29 wherein the main pivot bracket includes a base member fixedly attached to the vehicle, and the base member includes a side member, and a lower end of the front link is pivotally secured to a forward end of the side member so that the front panel pivots at the front panel pivot axis, and a lower end of the rear link is pivotally secured to a rearward end of the side member at the rear panel pivot axis as the convertible top is moved between an extended position and a retracted position in the storage compartment.
31. A convertible top assembly for a vehicle that is moveable between an extended position and a retracted position in a storage compartment of the vehicle, the assembly comprising:
a deck lid pivotable to provide access to the storage compartment;
a front panel member;
a rear panel member;
a main pivot bracket having a forward link pivotally connected to a rear edge of the front panel member and a rearward link pivotally attached at a first end to the rear panel member and pivotally attached at a second end to the forward link, such that an outer surface of the front panel member is adjacent an inner surface of the rear panel member and an inner surface of the deck lid is adjacent an outer surface of the rear panel member when the convertible top assembly is in the retracted position in the storage compartment.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/143,534 US20130038084A1 (en) | 2009-01-08 | 2010-01-08 | Convertible top |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14320009P | 2009-01-08 | 2009-01-08 | |
PCT/US2010/020502 WO2010081002A1 (en) | 2009-01-08 | 2010-01-08 | Convertible top |
US13/143,534 US20130038084A1 (en) | 2009-01-08 | 2010-01-08 | Convertible top |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20130038084A1 true US20130038084A1 (en) | 2013-02-14 |
Family
ID=42316832
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/143,534 Abandoned US20130038084A1 (en) | 2009-01-08 | 2010-01-08 | Convertible top |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20130038084A1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2012514562A (en) |
CN (1) | CN102333663A (en) |
DE (1) | DE112010000832T5 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2010081002A1 (en) |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20150076855A1 (en) * | 2014-11-12 | 2015-03-19 | Kurt Paul Vogt | Split Hard Top Convertible for Motorized Passenger Vehicle |
US20150266362A1 (en) * | 2014-03-19 | 2015-09-24 | Ferrari S.P.A. | Convertible car with a rigid sunroof and a front engine and corresponding control method |
US9963024B2 (en) * | 2016-03-18 | 2018-05-08 | Mazda Motor Corporation | Rear vehicle-body structure of automotive vehicle with storing-type roof |
US10220689B2 (en) * | 2017-06-30 | 2019-03-05 | Webasto SE | Top of a vehicle comprising locking means |
US11235651B2 (en) | 2018-11-09 | 2022-02-01 | Mclaren Automotive Limited | Retractable roof |
Families Citing this family (4)
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DE102014213730B3 (en) * | 2014-07-15 | 2015-12-31 | Magna Car Top Systems Gmbh | roof |
DE102014017518A1 (en) * | 2014-11-27 | 2016-06-02 | Audi Ag | motor vehicle |
JP6225929B2 (en) * | 2015-02-16 | 2017-11-08 | マツダ株式会社 | Rear body structure of the vehicle |
CN105235483B (en) * | 2015-10-19 | 2017-07-11 | 安徽工程大学 | Roof device suitable for open car |
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- 2010-01-08 US US13/143,534 patent/US20130038084A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2010-01-08 DE DE112010000832T patent/DE112010000832T5/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2010-01-08 WO PCT/US2010/020502 patent/WO2010081002A1/en active Application Filing
- 2010-01-08 JP JP2011545456A patent/JP2012514562A/en active Pending
- 2010-01-08 CN CN2010800072508A patent/CN102333663A/en active Pending
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
DE112010000832T5 (en) | 2012-09-13 |
JP2012514562A (en) | 2012-06-28 |
CN102333663A (en) | 2012-01-25 |
WO2010081002A1 (en) | 2010-07-15 |
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